MERCURIC BENZOATE

Chemical properties

White crystals.Sensitive to light. Soluble in solutions of sodium chloride and ammonium benzoate; slightly soluble in alcohol and water.

The Uses of MERCURIC BENZOATE

Medicine (antisyphilitic).

General Description

A white crystalline odorless solid. Melting point 165°C. Sensitive to light. Highly toxic by inhalation and ingestion.

Air & Water Reactions

Slightly soluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

MERCURIC BENZOATE is soluble in solutions of sodium chloride and ammonium benzoate [Hawley]. Reacts as a weak base.

Hazard

Toxic by ingestion, inhalation, and skin absorption; strong irritant.

Health Hazard

TOXIC; inhalation, ingestion or skin contact with material may cause severe injury or death. Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Avoid any skin contact. Effects of contact or inhalation may be delayed. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may be corrosive and/or toxic and cause pollution.

Fire Hazard

Non-combustible, substance itself does not burn but may decompose upon heating to produce corrosive and/or toxic fumes. Some are oxidizers and may ignite combustibles (wood, paper, oil, clothing, etc.). Contact with metals may evolve flammable hydrogen gas. Containers may explode when heated.

Safety Profile

A poison. When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of Hg. See also MERCURY COMPOUNDS.